Meoto Iwa  (Ise, Mie Prefecture)

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Meoto Iwa (Ise, Mie Prefecture)

An oversized pair of “married” rocks standing fast together.

Last update :
Head Editor : Futami Okitama Shrine

Futamiura's coastline is famous for the Meoto Iwa (Married Rocks) - two large rocks, one 9 meters tall and the other 4 meters, standing side by side like a couple, symbolizing marital harmony. This famed destination draws women and couples seeking good relationships. Located 700 meters offshore, the Oki-no-shima (a sacred stone) and a torii gate are seen as places to worship the sunrise, attracting devotion since ancient times. The rocks can be viewed from the approach to Futami Okitama Shrine.

From May to July, visitors can witness the sunrise between the Married Rocks. This view is especially breathtaking around the summer solstice, when the sunrise behind Mount Fuji attracts eager shutterbugs. From autumn to winter, the full moon rising between the rocks offers a different taste and view that’s just as stunning.

For best time, visit during the ceremony season on May 5th, September 5th, and weekend days in mid-December to see the famed site of the sacred rope being replaced. The site is also a famous spot for watching the first sunrise of the New Year.

Highlights

  • The landscape with the 9-meter-tall male rock and the 4-meter-tall female rock side by side symbolizes marital harmony.
  • Sunrises can be viewed between the rocks from May to July, and full moons from autumn to winter.
  • The sacred rope replacement ceremony occurs three times a year.

Photos

  • The sunrise between the Married Rocks has been revered by the Japanese since ancient times.

    The sunrise between the Married Rocks has been revered by the Japanese since ancient times.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

Sorry, we don’t.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Are there restrooms available?

A

Restrooms are available next to the vending machines at Futami Okitama Shrine and near the indoor waiting areas.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
夫婦岩
Postal Code
519-0602
Address
Futamiokitama Shrine, 575 Futamichoe, Ise City, Mie
Telephone
0596-43-2020 (Futamiokitama Shrine)
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free
Access
About 15 minutes walk from JR Sangu Line’s Futaminoura Station.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)